Retell - the 5 Story Elements

In Grade 2 English, students learn how to retell stories which they have read. To do so, they need to have a firm understanding of the 5 elements of a story. These 5 Story Elements are: the characters, the setting, the plot, the problem, and the solution.

Characters

​The characters are the individuals that the story is about. The author should introduce the characters in the story with enough information that the reader can visualize each person. This is achieved by providing detailed descriptions of a character’s physical attributes and personality traits. Every story should have a main character. The main character determines the way the plot will develop and is usually who will solve the problem the story centers upon. However, the other characters are also very important because they supply additional details, explanations, or actions. All characters should stay true to the author’s descriptions throughout the story so that the reader can understand and believe the action that is taking place—and perhaps even predict which character may do what next.

Setting

​The setting is the location of the action. An author should describe the environment or surroundings of the story in such detail that the reader feels that he or she can picture the scene. Unusual settings (such as a fantasy world) can be interesting, but everyday settings can help a reader to better visualize the story and feel connected to the plot!

The Plot

The plot is the actual story around which the entire book is based. A plot should have a very clear beginning, middle, and end—with all the necessary descriptions and suspense, called exposition—so that the reader can make sense of the action and follow along from start to finish.

The Problem

Every story has a confl ict to solve. The plot is centered on this confl ict and the ways in which the characters attempt to resolve the problem. When the story’s action becomes most exciting, right before the resolution, it is called the climax.

The solution

​The solution to the problem is the way the action is resolved. For example, Katie often resolves a confl ict by fi nding a compromise for two fi ghting characters or helping fi x any mistakes she made while switcherooed into someone else. It is important that the resolution fi t the rest of the story in tone and creativity and solve all parts of the confl ict.

How to use our graphic organizer

In every piece of writing we do, we must start with our prewriting. To brainstorm and consolidate our ideas, we often use a graphic organizer. Below, you will find an example of a blank graphic organizer (which you can print out and practice at home with), as well as one complete for our reading of "Coyote Sings to the Moon" by Thomas King.

How to write a retell

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